Turning light into millions — Literally

Two Stanford physicists left the lab to fix a broken system: computer chips that waste too much energy and can’t keep up with AI.

Their startup, Lightium, is using light (yep, actual light) to make chips faster, cooler, and ready for the next tech wave — from AI to quantum.

In this episode, we get into:
- Why traditional chips are hitting a ceiling
- How they explained photonic tech without losing the room
- The inside story of raising €7M as deeptech outsiders
- What it really takes to turn hard science into a real business

If you like big tech bets, underestimated founders, and startups building the invisible stuff that powers the future — hit play.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Lightium and Its Founders

00:02:53 - The Journey into Photonics and Deep Tech

00:05:48 - Transitioning from Academia to Entrepreneurship

00:09:03 - The Birth of Lightium

00:11:46 - Navigating Competition in the Photonics Industry

00:14:52 - Understanding Photonics: Misconceptions and Realities

00:23:57 - The Future of Data and Photonic Solutions

00:24:43 - The Future of Electric Vehicles and Autonomous Driving

00:26:33 - Co-Founders: Balancing Roles and Responsibilities

00:31:02 - Building a Strong Team Culture in Deep Tech

00:37:54 - Navigating Customer and Investor Relationships

00:39:42 - The Future Impact of Lightium on Data Consumption

00:45:56 - Finding Momentum in the Startup Journey